Pages from Intel ISEF 2013 International Rules

International Rules for Pre-college Science Research:
Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs
2012–2013
Table of Contents
For ALL Projects
Intel ISEF Ethics Statement ....................................................................................................................................................................3
Intel ISEF Eligibility/Limitations ............................................................................................................................................................3
Intel ISEF Requirements ...........................................................................................................................................................................3
Continuation of Projects ...........................................................................................................................................................................4
Team Projects .................................................................................................................................................................................................4
Roles and Responsibilities of Students and Adults
1) The Student Researcher(s) ...............................................................................................................................................................5
2) The Adult Sponsor .................................................................................................................................................................................5
3) The Qualified Scientist ........................................................................................................................................................................5
4) The Designated Supervisor ..............................................................................................................................................................5
5) The Institutional Review Board (IRB) ..........................................................................................................................................5
6) Local and Affiliated Fair Scientific Review Committees (SRC) ......................................................................................6
7) Other Review Committees ................................................................................................................................................................6
8) The Intel ISEF Scientific Review Committee ...........................................................................................................................7
Human Participants Rules .............................................................................................................................................................................8
1) Exempt Studies .......................................................................................................................................................................................8
2) Rules ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................8
3) IRB Waiver of Written Informed Consent..................................................................................................................................9
4) Human Participant Risk Assessment........................................................................................................................................10
Vertebrate Animal Rules ............................................................................................................................................................................11
1) Rules for ALL Vertebrate Animal Studies .............................................................................................................................11
2) Additional Rules for Projects Conducted at School/Home/Field ...............................................................................12
3) Additional Rules for Projects Conducted in a Regulated Research Institution ...............................................13
Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents
Rules for ALL Studies Involving Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents ................................................................14
Additional Rules for Projects Involving Unknown Microorganisms ...............................................................................15
Additional Rules for Projects Involving Recombinant DNA (rDNA) Technologies .................................................15
Additional Rules for Projects Involving Tissues and Body Fluids Including Blood and Blood Products ....15
Hazardous Chemicals, Activities or Devices Rules ......................................................................................................................18
Display and Safety Regulations .............................................................................................................................................................21
Sources of Information ...............................................................................................................................................................................25
Information on Required Abstract .......................................................................................................................................................28
Categories & Sub-Categories ...................................................................................................................................................................29
Forms ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................30
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 1
www.societyforscience.org/isef/rulesandguidelines
The International Rules and Guidelines for Science Fairs is available at www.societyforscience.org in multiple formats. Familiarity
with the rules is recommended for students, parents, teachers, mentors, fair directors and local and affiliated fair scientific
review committees (SRC) and institutional review boards (IRB).
• International Rules and Guidelines — The full text of the International Rules and forms in html and as a downloadable
pdf.
• The Intel ISEF Rules Wizard —An interactive tool which asks questions about your intended project and provides a list
of forms required.
• Common SRC Problems — Frequent problems that emerge during Scientific Review Committee review for qualification
at the Intel ISEF. Read these to learn what NOT to do.
These Rules are applicable for:
The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair 2013
Phoenix, Arizona, USA, May 12–17, 2013
The purpose of these rules is to:
• determine eligibility for competition in the Intel ISEF 2013
• protect the rights and welfare of the student researcher
• protect the rights and welfare of the human participant
• protect the health and welfare of the vertebrate animal subject
• ensure adherence to federal regulations
• ensure use of safe laboratory practices
• protect the environment
For pre-review and approval of your project, find your fair at
http://apps.societyforscience.org/find_a_fair
For Intel ISEF questions, contact:
Society for Science & the Public
Science Education Programs
1719 N Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036
office: 202-785-2255, fax: 202- 785-1243
email: sciedu@societyforscience.org
For rules questions, contact the Intel ISEF Scientific Review Committee:
SRC@societyforscience.org
Page 2 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
ALL PROJECTS
Ethics Statement 3) All projects must adhere to the requirements of the
Scientific fraud and misconduct are not condoned at any level affiliated fair(s) in which it competes to qualify for
of research or competition. This includes plagiarism, forgery, participation in the Intel ISEF. Knowledge of these
use or presentation of other researcher’s work as one’s own, requirements is the responsibility of the student and
and fabrication of data. Fraudulent projects will fail to qualify Adult Sponsor.
for competition in affiliated fairs and the Intel ISEF. Society for
Science & the Public reserves the right to revoke recognition 4) Projects must adhere to local, state and U.S. Federal
of a project subsequently found to have been fraudulent. laws, regulations and permitting conditions. In addition,
projects conducted outside the U.S. must also adhere
to the laws of the country and jurisdiction in which the
Eligibility/Limitations project was performed.
1) Each Intel ISEF-affiliated fair may send up to the number
of projects authorized by its affiliation agreement. 5) The use of non-animal research methods and the use of
alternatives to animal research are strongly encouraged
2) A student must be selected by an Intel ISEF-affiliated and must be explored before conducting a vertebrate
fair, and animal project.
a. be in grades 9–12 or equivalent;
b. not have reached age 20 on or before May 1 6) Introduction or disposal of non-native species,
preceding the Intel ISEF. pathogens, toxic chemicals or foreign substances into
the environment is prohibited.
3) Each student may enter only one project. That project
may include no more than 12 months of continuous 7) Intel ISEF exhibits must adhere to Intel ISEF display and
research and may not include research performed before safety requirements.
January 2012.
4) Team projects may have two or three members. Teams Approval and Documentation
may not have had more than three members at a local 8) Before experimentation begins, a local or regional
fair. Teams may not substitute members in a given Institutional Review Board (IRB) or Scientific Review
research year. Committee (SRC) associated with the Intel ISEF-affiliated
fair must review and approve most projects involving
5) Students may compete in only one Intel ISEF affiliated human participants, vertebrate animals, and potentially
fair, except when proceeding to a state/national fair hazardous biological agents.
affiliated with the Intel ISEF from an affiliated regional
fair. 9) Every student must complete the Student Checklist (1A),
a Research Plan and Approval Form (1B) and review
6) Projects that are demonstrations, ‘library’ research, the project with the Adult Sponsor in coordination with
informational projects, ‘explanation’ models or kit- completion by the Adult Sponsor of the Checklist for
building are not appropriate for the Intel ISEF. Adult Sponsor (1).
7) All sciences (physical, life, social) are represented at the 10) A Qualified Scientist is required for all studies involving
Intel ISEF. A complete list of categories with descriptions BSL-2 potentially hazardous biological agents and DEA-
is at www.societyforscience.org/isef/project_categories. controlled substances and is also required for many
human participant studies and many vertebrate animal
8) A research project may be a part of a larger study studies.
performed by professional scientists, but the project
presented by the student must be only their own 11) After initial IRB/SRC approval (if required), any proposed
portion of the complete study. changes in the Student Checklist (1A) and Research Plan
must be re-approved before laboratory experimentation/
data collection resumes.
Requirements
General 12) Projects which are continuations of a previous year’s
1) All domestic and international students competing in an work and which require IRB/SRC approval must undergo
Intel ISEF-affiliated fair must adhere to all rules as set the review process with the current year proposal prior
forth in this document. to experimentation/data collection for the current year.
2) All projects must adhere to the Ethics Statement above.
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 3
13) Any continuing project must document that the drought on soil in a given basin, return of flora and
additional research is new and different (see fauna in a burned area over time.)
Continuation Projects Form (7)). b. Each consecutive year demonstrates time-based
change.
14) If work was conducted in a Regulated Research c. The display board is based on collective past
Institution, industrial setting or any work site other than definitive data and its comparison to the current year
home, school or field, at any time during the current Intel data set. No raw data from previous years may be
ISEF project year, the Regulated Research Institutional/ displayed.
Industrial Setting Form (1C) must be completed and
displayed at the project booth. 5) All continuation projects must be reviewed and approved
each year and forms must again be completed for the
15) After experimentation, each student or team must new year.
submit a (maximum) 250-word, one-page abstract which
summarizes the current year’s work. The abstract must NOTE: For competition in the Intel ISEF, documentation must
describe research conducted by the student, not by the include the Continuation Project Form (7), the previous year’s
supervising adult(s). abstract and research plan and the abstract for all other prior
years. Documentation must be labeled clearly with the year
16) A project data book and research paper are not required, (ex: 2011-2012). Retention of all prior years’ paperwork is
but are recommended. Regional or local fairs may require required and must be presented to the Intel ISEF SRC upon
a project data book and/or a research paper. request.
17) All signed forms, certifications, and permits must be Team Projects
available for review by all regional, state, national 1) Team projects compete and are judged in the scientific
and international affiliated fair SRCs in which the category of their research at the Intel ISEF.
student(s) participate. This review must occur after
experimentation and before competition. 2) Teams may have two or three members. Teams may
not have had more than three members at any level of
Continuation of Projects affiliated fair. Teams may not substitute members in a
1) As in the professional world, research projects may given research year.
build on work performed previously. A valid continuation
project is a sound scientific endeavor. Students will be 3) Team membership cannot be changed during a given
judged only on laboratory experiment/data collection research year, including converting from an individual
performed over 12 continuous months beginning no project to a team project, or vice versa. In future years,
earlier than January 2012 and ending May 2013. the project may be converted from an individual to a
team project, from a team to an individual project and/or
2) Any project based on the student’s prior research could change team members.
be considered a continuation project. If the current
year’s project could not have been performed without 4) Each team is encouraged to appoint a team leader to
the outcome of a past year’s research project, then coordinate the work and act as spokesperson. However,
it is considered a continuation for competition. These each member of the team should be able to serve as
projects must document that the additional research is spokesperson, be fully involved with the project, and
a substantive expansion from prior work (e.g. testing a be familiar with all aspects of the project. The final
new variable or new line of investigation.) Repetition of work should reflect the coordinated efforts of all team
previous experimentation with the same methodology members and will be evaluated using similar rules and
and research question, even with an increased sample judging criteria as individual projects.
size, is an example of an unacceptable continuation.
5) Each team member must submit an Approval Form (1B).
3) Display board and abstract must reflect the current Team members must jointly submit the Checklist for
year’s work only. The project title displayed in the Adult Sponsor (1), one abstract, a Student Checklist (1A),
Finalist’s booth may mention years (for example, “Year a Research Plan and other required forms.
Two of an Ongoing Study”). Supporting data books (not
research papers) from previous related research may be 6) Full names of all team members must appear on the
exhibited if properly labeled as such. abstract and forms.
4) Longitudinal studies are permitted as an acceptable
continuation under the following conditions:
a. The study is a multi-year study testing or
documenting the same variables in which time is
a critical variable. (Examples: effect of high rain or
Page 4 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
Roles and Responsibilities of Students when approved by a Scientific Review Committee (SRC).
The Qualified Scientist must be thoroughly familiar with
and Adults local, state, and federal regulations that govern the
1) The Student Researcher(s) student’s area of research.
The student researcher is responsible for all aspects of
the research project including enlisting the aid of any The Qualified Scientist and the Adult Sponsor may be
required supervisory adults (Adult Sponsor, Qualified the same person, if that person is qualified as described
Scientist, etc.), obtaining necessary approvals (SRC, IRB, above. A student may work with a Qualified Scientist
etc.), following the Rules & Guidelines of the Intel ISEF, in a city, state or country that is not where the student
and performing the experimentation, engineering, data resides. In this case, the student must work locally with
analysis, etc. a Designated Supervisor (see below) who has been
trained in the techniques to be applied by the student.
Scientific fraud and misconduct are not condoned at any
level of research or competition. This includes plagiarism, 4) The Designated Supervisor
forgery, use or presentation of other researcher’s The Designated Supervisor is an adult who is directly
work as one’s own, and fabrication of data. Fraudulent responsible for overseeing student experimentation.
projects will fail to qualify for competition in affiliated The Designated Supervisor need not have an advanced
fairs and the Intel ISEF. Society for Science & the Public degree, but must be thoroughly familiar with the
reserves the right to revoke recognition of a project student’s project, and must be trained in the student’s
subsequently found to have been fraudulent. area of research. The Adult Sponsor may act as the
Designated Supervisor.
2) The Adult Sponsor
An Adult Sponsor may be a teacher, parent, professor, If a student is experimenting with live vertebrates
and/or other professional scientist in whose lab the and the animals, their behavior, or their habitat is
student is working. This individual must have a solid influenced by humans, the Designated Supervisor must
background in science and should have close contact be knowledgeable about the humane care and handling
with the student during the course of the project. of the animals.
The Adult Sponsor is responsible for working with
the student to evaluate any possible risks involved in 5) The Institutional Review Board (IRB)
order to ensure the health and safety of the student An Institutional Review Board (IRB) is a committee that,
conducting the research and the humans and/or animals according to federal regulations (45-CFR-46), must
involved in the study. The Adult Sponsor must review evaluate the potential physical and/or psychological
the student’s Student Checklist (1A) and Research Plan risk of research involving humans. All proposed human
to certify that that: a) experimentation is within local, research must be reviewed and approved by an IRB
state, and Federal laws and Intel ISEF rules; b) forms are before experimentation begins. This includes review of
completed by other required adults; and c) criteria for any surveys or questionnaires to be used in a project.
the Qualified Scientist adhere to those set forth below.
Federal regulations require local community
The Adult Sponsor must be familiar with the regulations involvement. Therefore, it is advisable that an IRB
that govern potentially dangerous research as be established at the school level to evaluate human
they apply to a specific student project. These may research projects. If necessary, the local or Intel ISEF-
include chemical and equipment usage, experimental affiliated SRC can serve as an IRB as long as it has the
techniques, research involving human and/or vertebrate required membership. An IRB must:
animals, and cell cultures, microorganisms, or animal a. consist of a minimum of three members.
tissues. Regulations must be discussed with the student b. include an educator
when completing the Research Plan. Some experiments c. include a school administrator (preferably principal or
involve procedures or materials that are regulated by vice principal),
state, federal or non-U.S. national laws. If not thoroughly d. include an individual who is knowledgeable about
familiar with the regulations, the Adult Sponsor should and capable of evaluating the physical and/or
help the student enlist the aid of a Qualified Scientist. psychological risk involved in a given study. This may
be a medical doctor, physician’s assistant, registered
The Adult Sponsor is responsible for ensuring the nurse, psychologist, licensed social worker or licensed
student’s research is eligible for entry in the Intel ISEF. clinical professional counselor.
3) The Qualified Scientist Additional Expertise: If an expert is not available in the
A Qualified Scientist should have earned a doctoral/ immediate area, documented contact with an external
professional degree in a scientific discipline that expert is recommended. A copy all correspondence with
relates to the student’s area of research. A PhD, MD the expert (e.g. emails) must be attached to Form 4 and
or a master’s degree with additional experience and can be used in lieu of the signature of that expert.
expertise in the student’s area of research is acceptable
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 5
No Adult Sponsor, parent or other relative of the An Affiliated Fair SRC must:
student, the Qualified Scientist, or Designated a. include a minimum of three persons
Supervisor who oversee the project may serve on b. include a biomedical scientist (earned doctoral degree,
the IRB reviewing that project. Additional members such as Ph.D., M.D., D.V.M., D.D.S., PharmD., or D.O.)
are recommended to help avoid a potential conflict of c. include an educator
interest and to increase the expertise of the committee. d. include at least one additional member
Additional expertise: many project evaluations require
IRBs exist at federally Regulated Research Institutions additional expertise (e.g., on biosafety and/or of human
(e.g., universities, medical centers, NIH, correctional risk groups.) If the SRC needs an expert as one of its
facilities). Prisoner advocates must be included on the members and one is not in the immediate area, all
IRB when research participants are incarcerated. The documented contact with an external expert must
institutional IRB must initially review and approve all be submitted. If animal research is involved, at least
proposed research conducted at or sponsored by that one member must be familiar with proper animal care
institution. The Adult Sponsor and the local IRB are procedures. Depending on the nature of the study, this
responsible for ensuring that the project is appropriate person can be a veterinarian or animal care provider
for a pre-college student and adheres to the Intel ISEF with training and/or experience in the species being
rules. studied.
An IRB is responsible for assessing risk and documenting No Adult Sponsor, parent or other relative of the
the determination of risk level on Human Participant student(s), the Qualified Scientist, or the Designated
Form 4. However, in reviewing projects just prior to Supervisor who oversee the project may serve on the
a fair, if the SRC serving at that level of competition IRB reviewing that project. Additional members are
judges an IRB’s decision as inappropriate, thereby recommended to diversify and to increase the expertise
placing human participants in jeopardy, they may of the committee.
override the IRB’s decision and the project may fail to
qualify for competition. It is advised that IRBs consult A Scientific Review Committee (SRC) examines projects
with the local or affiliated fair SRCs and/or with the Intel for the following:
ISEF SRC in questionable cases. a. evidence of literature search and appropriate
attribution
6) The Affiliated Fair Scientific Review Committee b. evidence of proper supervision
A Scientific Review Committee (SRC) is a group of c. use of accepted and appropriate research techniques
qualified individuals that is responsible for evaluation d. completed forms, signatures and dates showing
of student research, certifications, research plans and maximum of one year duration of research and
exhibits for compliance with the rules and applicable appropriate preapproval dates (where required)
laws and regulations at each level of science fair e. evidence of search for alternatives to animal use
competition. Local SRCs may be formed to assist f. humane treatment of animals
the Affiliated Fair SRC in reviewing projects. The g. compliance with rules and laws governing human and/
operation and composition of the local and Affiliated or animal research and research involving potentially
Fair SRCs must fully comply with the International hazardous biological agents
Rules. Directions for obtaining preapproval are available i. documentation of substantial expansion for
from the affiliated fair. A list of fairs is at: http://apps. continuation projects
societyforscience.org/isef/find_a_fair. j. compliance with the Intel ISEF ethics statement
Most proposed research projects involving vertebrate 7) Other Review Committees
animals and/or potentially hazardous biological Certain areas of research conducted in a Regulated
agents must be reviewed and approved BEFORE Research Institution require review and approval
experimentation. Local or regional SRC prior review is by federally mandated committees that have been
not required for human studies previously reviewed and established at that institution. These committees
approved by a properly constituted IRB. include:
a. Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC);
ALL projects, including those previously reviewed and Animal Care and Use Committee (ACUC); Animal Ethics
approved by an IRB must be reviewed and approved by Committee
the SRC after experimentation and before competition b. Institutional Review Board (IRB)
in an Intel ISEF Affiliated Fair. Projects which were Human Subjects Research Board (HSRB)
conducted at a Regulated Research Institution (not c. Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)
home, high school or field) and which were reviewed d. Embryonic Stem Cell Research Oversight Committee
and approved by the proper institutional board before (ESCRO)
experimentation, must also be approved by the Intel
ISEF Affiliated Fair SRC.
Page 6 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
8) The Intel ISEF Scientific Review Committee (Intel
ISEF SRC)
All projects are reviewed by the Intel ISEF Scientific
Review Committee prior to competition. The Intel ISEF
SRC is the final arbiter of the qualification of students to
participate in the Intel ISEF. Before the fair, committee
members review research plans and all required forms
to confirm that applicable Intel ISEF rules have been
followed. The Intel ISEF SRC may request additional
information from students prior to the Intel ISEF or may
interview potential Intel ISEF participants at the fair to
ensure that they qualify to compete.
The Intel ISEF SRC, like an Affiliated Fair SRC, is made
up of adults knowledgeable about research regulations.
In addition to the review of all projects at the Intel ISEF,
committee members answer questions about the rules
throughout the year from students and teachers. The
ISEF SRC can be contacted at SRC@societyforscience.
org.
Members of the Intel ISEF Scientific Review
Committee 2013
Dr. Nancy Aiello, Chair
Mr. Henry Disston
Mr. Marcus Friskop
Dr. Paula Johnson
Dr. Maria Lavooy
Mrs. Christine Miller
Mrs. Evelyn Montalvo
Dr. Jason Shuffitt
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 7
Human Participants
Student researchers must follow federal guidelines (Code is a living individual about whom an investigator
of Federal Regulations 45 CFR 46) to protect the human conducting research obtains (1) data or samples through
research participant and the student researcher. When intervention or interaction with individual(s), and/or (2)
students conduct research with humans, the rights and identifiable private information. These projects require
welfare of the participants must be protected. Most human IRB review and preapproval, and may also require
participant studies require preapproval from an Institutional documentation of written informed consent/assent/
Review Board (IRB) and informed consent/assent from the parental permission. Examples of studies that are
research participant. considered “human participant research” requiring IRB
preapproval include:
Exempt Studies • Subjects participating in physical activities (e.g.,
(Do Not Require IRB Preapproval or Human Participants physical exertion, ingestion of any substance, any
Paperwork) medical procedure)
• Psychological, educational and opinion studies (e.g.,
Some studies involving humans are exempt from IRB pre- surveys, questionnaires, tests)
approval or additional human participant forms. Exempt • Studies in which the researcher is the subject of the
projects for the Intel ISEF and affiliated fairs are: research
• Testing of a student-designed invention, program, • Behavioral observations that
concept, etc. where the feedback received is a direct a) involve any interaction with the observed
reference to the product, where personal data is not individual(s) or where the researcher has
collected, and where the testing does not pose a modified the environment (e.g., posts a sign,
health or safety hazard. It is recommended that a Risk places an object).
Assessment Form (3) be completed. b) occur in non-public or restricted access
settings (e.g., day care setting, doctor’s
• Data/record review studies (e.g., baseball statistics, crime office)
statistics) in which the data are taken from preexisting c) involve the recording of personally
data sets that are publicly available and/or published identifiable information
and do not involve any interaction with humans or the • Data/record review projects that include data that are
collection of any data from a human participant for the not de-identified/anonymous (e.g., name, birth date,
purpose of the student’s research project. phone number and/or other identifying variables.)
• Behavioral observations of unrestricted, public settings 2) Student researchers must complete ALL elements
(e.g., shopping mall, public park) in which all of the of the Human Participants portion of the Research
following apply: Plan Instructions and evaluate and minimize the
a. the researcher has no interaction with the individuals physical, psychological and privacy risks to their human
being observed; participants. See Risk Assessment below and the Risk
b. the researcher does not manipulate the environment Assessment Guide for additional guidance.
in any way, and
c. the researcher does not record any personally 3) The research study must be in compliance with all
identifiable data. privacy and HIPAA laws as they apply to the project (e.g.
the project involves medical information.)
• Projects in which the student receives the data in a de-
identified/anonymous format which complies with both 4) All research projects involving human participants,
of the following conditions: including any revisions, must be reviewed and approved
a. the professional providing the data certifies in writing by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) before the
that the data have been appropriately de-identified student may begin recruiting and/or interacting with
and are in compliance with all privacy and HIPAA laws, human participants. The IRB must assess the risk and
and document its determination of risk on Form 4. After
b. the affiliated fair SRC ensures that the data were initial IRB approval, a student with any proposed changes
appropriately de-identified by review of the written in the Research Plan must repeat the approval process
documentation provided by the supervising adult(s). and regain approval before laboratory experimentation/
data collection resumes.
Rules
1) The use of human participants in science projects is 5) Research conducted by a pre-college student at a
allowable under the conditions and rules in the following federally Regulated Research Institution (e.g., university,
sections. Based upon the Code of Federal Regulations medical center, government lab, correctional institution)
(45 CFR 46), the definition of a human participant must be reviewed and approved by that institution’s
IRB. A copy of the IRB approval for the entire project
Page 8 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
(which must include the research procedures/measures publisher. Any and all use and distribution of the test
the student is using) and/or an official letter from the must be in accordance with the publisher’s requirements,
IRB attesting to approval is required. A letter from the including procurement of legal copies of the instrument.
mentor is not sufficient documentation of IRB review
and approval. 10) Studies that involve the collection of data via use of the
internet (e.g., email, web-based surveys) are allowed,
6) Research participants must voluntarily give informed but researchers should be aware that they can pose
consent/assent (in some cases with parental permission) challenges in a) collecting anonymous data, b) obtaining
before participating in the study. Adult research informed consent and c) ensuring that participants are
participants may give their own consent. Research of the appropriate age to give informed consent. See the
participants under 18 years of age and/or individuals Risk Assessment Guide and the Online Survey Consent
not able to give consent (e.g. developmentally disabled Procedures.
individuals) give their assent, with the parent/guardian
providing permission. The IRB will determine whether 11) After experimentation and before Intel ISEF competition,
the consent/assent/parental permission may be verbal the Intel ISEF SRC reviews and approves previously-
or must be written depending on the level of risk and approved projects to ensure that students followed the
the type of study, and will determine if a Qualified approved Research Plan and all of the Intel ISEF rules.
Scientist is required to oversee the project. See Risk
Assessment below and the Risk Assessment Guide for 12) The following forms are required:
further explanation of informed consent. a. Checklist for Adult Sponsor (1), Student Checklist (1A),
• Informed consent requires that the researcher Research Plan, and Approval Form (1B)
provides complete information to the participant (and b. Human Participants Form (4) with applicable consents
where applicable, parents or guardians) about the and survey(s)
risks and benefits associated with participation in the c. Regulated Research Institution Form (1C), when
research study, which then allows the participants applicable
and parents or guardians to make an informed d. Qualified Scientist Form (2), when applicable
decision about whether or not to participate.
• Participants must be informed that their participation Sources of Information are available as a separate section at
is voluntary (i.e., they may participate or decline the end of the document.
to participate, with no adverse consequences of
nonparticipation or aborted participation) and that
IRB Waiver of Written Informed Consent
The IRB may waive the requirement for documentation of
they are free to stop participating at any time.
written informed consent/assent/parental permission if the
• Informed consent may not involve coercion and is an
research involves only minimal risk and anonymous data
on-going process, not a single event that ends with a
collection and if it is one of the following:
signature.
a) Research involving normal educational practices
• When written parental permission is required and the
b) Research on individual or group behavior or
study includes a survey, the survey must be attached
characteristics of individuals where the researcher does
to the consent form.
not manipulate the participants’ behavior and the study
does not involve more than minimal risk.
7) A student may observe and collect data for analysis of
c) Surveys, questionnaires, or activities that are
medical procedures and medication administration only
determined by the IRB to involve perception, cognition,
under the direct supervision of a medical professional.
or game theory and do NOT involve gathering personal
This medical professional must be named in the research
information, invasion of privacy or potential for
protocol approved by the IRB. Students are prohibited
emotional distress.
from administering medication and/or performing
d) Studies involving physical activity where the IRB
invasive medical procedures on human participants. The
determines that no more than minimal risk exists
IRB must also confirm that the student is not violating
and where the probability and magnitude of harm or
the medical practice act of the state or country in which
discomfort anticipated in the research are not greater
he/she is conducting the research.
than those ordinarily encountered in DAILY LIFE or
during performance of routine physical activities.
8) Student researchers may NOT publish or display
information in a report that identifies the human
If there is any uncertainty regarding the appropriateness of
participants directly or through identifiers linked to the
waiving written informed consent/assent/parental permission,
participants (including photographs) without the written
it is strongly recommended that documentation of written
consent of the participant(s) (Public Health Service Act,
informed consent/assent/parental permission be obtained.
42, USC 241 (d)).
Projects involving no more than minimal risk and those with
9) All published instruments that are not in the public
more than minimal risk are allowed under the following
domain must be administered, scored and interpreted
guidelines.
by a Qualified Scientist as required by the instrument
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 9
Human Participant Risk Assessment
No more than minimal risk exists when the probability and magnitude of harm or discomfort anticipated in the research are not
greater (in and of themselves) than those ordinarily encountered in everyday life or during performance of routine physical or
psychological examinations or tests.
More than minimal risk exists when the possibility of physical or psychological harm or harm related to breach of confidentiality
or invasion of privacy is greater than what is typically encountered in everyday life. Most of these studies require documented
informed consent or minor assent with the permission of parent or guardian (as applicable).
1) Examples of Greater than Minimal Physical Risk
a. Exercise other than ordinarily encountered in everyday life
b. Ingestion, tasting, smelling, or application of a substance. However, ingestion or tasting projects that involve commonly
available food or drink will be evaluated by the IRB which determines risk level based upon the nature of the study and
local norms.
c. Exposure to any potentially hazardous material.
2) Examples of Greater than Minimal Psychological Risk
A research activity (e.g. survey, questionnaire, viewing of stimuli) or experimental condition that could potentially result in
emotional stress. Some examples include: answering questions related to personal experiences such as sexual or physical
abuse, divorce, depression, anxiety; answering questions that could result in feelings of depression, anxiety, or low self
esteem; or viewing violent or distressing video images.
3) Privacy Concerns
The student researcher and IRB must consider whether an activity could potentially result in negative consequences for
the participant due to invasion of privacy or breach of confidentiality. Protecting confidentiality requires measures to
ensure that identifiable research data are not disclosed to the public or unauthorized individuals.
Risk level can be reduced by protecting confidentiality or collecting data that is strictly anonymous. This requires the
collection of research in such a way that it is impossible to connect research data with the individual who provided the
data.
4) Risk Groups
If the research study includes participants from any of the following groups, the IRB and student research must consider
whether the nature of the study requires special protections or accommodations:
a. Any member of a group that is naturally at-risk (e.g. pregnant women, developmentally disabled persons, economically
or educationally disadvantaged persons, individuals with diseases such as cancer, asthma, diabetes, AIDS, dyslexia,
cardiac disorders, psychiatric disorders, learning disorders, etc.)
b. Special groups that are protected by federal regulations or guidelines (e.g. children/minors, prisoners, pregnant women,
students receiving services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
See the online Risk Assessment Guide and Online Survey Consent Procedures for more detailed information on risk
assessment.
Page 10 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
Vertebrate Animals
The following rules were developed to help pre-college 3) All vertebrate animal studies must be reviewed
student researchers adhere to the federal regulations and approved before experimentation begins. An
governing professional scientists and to protect the welfare Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, known as
of both animal subjects and the student researcher. When an IACUC, is the institutional animal oversight review
students conduct research with animal subjects, health and and approval body for all animal studies at a Regulated
well-being is of high priority. Research Institution. The affiliated fair SRC serves in
this capacity for vertebrate animals studies performed
SSP strongly endorses the use of non-animal research in a school, home or field. Any affiliated fair SRC serving
methods and encourages students to use alternatives to in this capacity must include a veterinarian or an animal
animal research. If the use of vertebrate animals is necessary, care provider with training and/or experience in the
students must consider additional alternatives to reduce and species being studied.
refine the use of animals.
4) All vertebrate animal studies must have a research plan
All projects involving vertebrate animals must adhere to that includes:
the rules below AND to either Section A or Section B rules, a. Justification why animals must be used, including
depending on the nature of the study and the research site. the reasons for the choice of species, the source
of animals and the number of animals to be used.
A project is considered a tissue study and not a vertebrate Describe any alternatives to animal use that were
animal study if tissue is obtained from an animal that was considered, and the reasons these alternatives
euthanized for a purpose other than the student’s project. were unacceptable. Explain the potential impact or
(Documentation is required of the IACUC approval for the contribution this research may have on the broad
original animal study from which tissues are obtained.) In fields of biology or medicine.
tissue studies, a student may observe the vertebrate study, b. Description of how the animals will be used. Include
but may not manipulate or have any direct involvement in the methods and procedures, such as experimental design
vertebrate animal experimental procedures. and data analysis. Describe the procedures that
will minimize the potential for discomfort, distress,
Rules for ALL Vertebrate Animal Studies pain and injury to the animals during the course of
1) The use of vertebrate animals in science projects is experimentation. Identify the species, strain, sex, age,
allowable under the conditions and rules in the following weight, source and number of animals proposed for
sections. Vertebrate animals, as covered by these rules, use.
are defined as:
• Live, nonhuman vertebrate mammalian embryos or 5) Studies involving behavioral observations of animals are
fetuses exempt from advance SRC review if ALL of the following
• Tadpoles apply:
• Bird and reptile eggs within three days (72 hours) of • There is no interaction with the animals being
hatching observed,
• All other nonhuman vertebrates (including fish) at • There is no manipulation of the animal environment in
hatching or birth. any way, and
• The study meets all federal and state agriculture, fish,
Exception: Because of their delayed cognitive neural game and wildlife laws and regulations.
development, zebrafish embryos are not considered
vertebrate animals until 7 days (168 hours) post- 6) Students performing vertebrate animal research must
fertilization. satisfy local, state, country laws and regulations of the
jurisdiction in which research is performed as well as U.S.
2) Alternatives to the use of vertebrate animals for federal law.
research must be explored and discussed in the research
plan. Alternatives include the following “Four R’s”: 7) Research projects which cause more than momentary or
• Replace vertebrate animals with invertebrates, slight pain or distress are prohibited. If there is illness or
lower life forms, tissue/cell cultures and/or computer unexpected weight loss this must be investigated and a
simulations where possible. veterinarian must be consulted to oversee any indicated
• Reduce the number of animals without compromising medical care. This investigation must be documented by
statistical validity. the Qualified Scientist, Designated Supervisor who is
• Refine the experimental protocol to minimize pain or qualified to determine the illness or a veterinarian. If the
distress to the animals. illness or distress is caused by the study, the experiment
• Respect animals and their contribution to research. must be terminated immediately.
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 11
8) No vertebrate animal deaths due to the experimental A. Additional Rules for Projects
procedures are permitted in any group or subgroup. Such Conducted at School/Home/Field
a project will fail to qualify for competition.
a. Studies that are designed or anticipated to cause Vertebrate animal studies may be conducted at a home,
vertebrate animal death are prohibited. school, farm, ranch, in the field, etc. This includes:
b. Any death that occurs must be investigated by a • Studies of animals in their natural environment.
veterinarian, the Qualified Scientist or the Designated • Studies of animals in zoological parks.
Supervisor who is qualified to determine the cause • Studies of livestock that use standard agricultural
of death. The project must be suspended until practices.
such investigation occurs and the results must be
documented in writing. These projects must be reviewed and approved by an SRC in
c. If death was the result of the experimental which one member is either a veterinarian and/or an animal
procedure, the study must be terminated, and the care provider/expert with training and/or experience in the
study will not qualify for competition. species being studied.
9) All animals must be monitored for signs of distress. 1) These projects must adhere to BOTH of the following
Because significant weight loss is one sign of stress, the guidelines:
maximum permissible weight loss or growth retardation a. The research involves only agricultural, behavioral,
(compared to controls) of any experimental or control observational or supplemental nutritional studies on
animal is 15%. animals.
AND
10) Students are prohibited from designing or participating b. The research involves only non-invasive and non-
in an experiment associated with the following types of intrusive methods that do not negatively affect an
studies on vertebrate animals: animal’s health or well-being.
a. Induced toxicity studies with known toxic substances
that could impair health or end life, including, but All studies meeting the general guidelines but not meeting the
not limited to, alcohol, acid rain, pesticides, or heavy above criteria specifically for home, school or field must be
metals. conducted at a Regulated Research Institution. See Section B.
b. Behavioral experiments using conditioning with
aversive stimuli, mother/infant separation or induced 2) Animals must be treated kindly and cared for properly.
helplessness. Animals must be housed in a clean, ventilated,
c. Studies of pain. comfortable environment appropriate for the
d. Predator/vertebrate prey experiments. species. They must be given a continuous, clean
(uncontaminated) water and food supply. Cages, pens
11) Justification is required for an experimental design that and fish tanks must be cleaned frequently. Proper care
involves food or fluid restriction and must be appropriate must be provided at all times, including weekends,
to the species. If the restriction exceeds 18 hours, the holidays, and vacation periods. Animals must be
project must be reviewed and approved by an IACUC and observed daily to assess their health and well-being.
conducted at a regulated research institution. A Designated Supervisor is required to oversee the
daily husbandry of the animals. Any of the following
12) Animals may not be captured from or released into the U.S. documents provide further guidance for animal
wild without approval of authorized wildlife or other husbandry:
regulatory officials. Fish may be obtained from the • Federal Animal Welfare Regulation
wild only if the researcher releases the fish unharmed, • Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
has the proper license, and adheres to state, local and • Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in
national fishing laws and regulations. Students are Agricultural Research and Teaching (Ag-Guide)
prohibited from performing electrofishing.
3) The affiliated fair Scientific Review Committee must
13) A Qualified Scientist or Designated Supervisor must determine if a veterinarian’s certification of the research
directly supervise all research involving vertebrate plan and animal husbandry plans is required. This
animals, except for observational studies. certification is required before experimentation and SRC
approval and is documented on Vertebrate Animal Form
14) After initial SRC approval, a student with any proposed 5A. A veterinarian must certify experiments that involve
changes in the Research Plan of the project must repeat supplemental nutrition, administration of prescription
the approval process before laboratory experimentation/ drugs and/or activities that would not be ordinarily
data collection resumes. encountered in the animal’s daily life.
Sources of Information are available as a separate section at
the end of the document.
Page 12 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
4) If an illness or emergency occurs, the affected animal(s) the project to certify that the research project complies
must receive proper medical or nursing care that is with Intel ISEF Rules. This local and regional SRC review
directed by a veterinarian. A student researcher must should occur before experimentation begins, if possible.
stop experimentation if there is unexpected weight loss
or death in the experimental subjects. The experiment 2) Student researchers are prohibited from performing
can only be resumed if the cause of illness or death euthanasia. Euthanasia at the end of experimentation
is not related to the experimental procedures and if for tissue removal and/or pathological analysis is
appropriate steps are taken to eliminate the causal permitted. All methods of euthanasia must adhere to
factors. If death is the result of the experimental current American Veterinarian Medical Association
procedure, the study must be terminated, and the study (AVMA) Guidelines.
will not qualify for competition.
3) Research projects that cause more than momentary
5) The final disposition of the animals must be described or slight pain or distress to vertebrate animals are
on Vertebrate Animal Form 5A. Euthanasia for tissue prohibited unless approved anesthetics, analgesics and/
removal and/or pathological analysis is not permitted for or tranquilizers are used.
a project conducted in a school/home/field site.
4) Research in nutritional deficiency or research involving
6) The following forms are required: substances or drugs of unknown effect is permitted to
a. Checklist for Adult Sponsor (1), Student Checklist (1A), the point that any clinical sign of distress is noted. In
Research Plan, and Approval Form (1B) the case that distress is observed, the project must be
b.. Vertebrate Animal Form (5A) suspended and measures must be taken to correct the
c. Qualified Scientist Form (2), when applicable deficiency or drug effect. A project can only be resumed
if appropriate steps are taken to correct the causal
B. Additional Rules for Projects factors.
Conducted in a Regulated Research
5) The following forms are required:
Institution a. Checklist for Adult Sponsor (1), Student Checklist (1A),
Research Plan, and Approval Form (1B)
All studies not meeting the criteria in Section A. but are b. Regulated Research Institution Form (1C)
otherwise permissible under Intel ISEF rules must be c. Vertebrate Animal Form (5B)
conducted in a Regulated Research Institution (RRI). A d. Qualified Scientist Form (2)
Regulated Research Institution within the U.S. is defined as
a professional research/teaching institution that is regularly
inspected by the USDA and is licensed to use animals covered
by the Animal Welfare Act and may also be subject to U.S.
Public Health Service Policy. Also included are all federal
laboratories such as National Institutes of Health, Veteran’s
Affairs Medical Centers and the Centers for Disease Control.
In addition, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
and research institutions that utilize research animals that
are not covered by the Animal Welfare Act but have an
operational Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee and
are in compliance with U.S. federal laws are included in this
definition. For project conducted outside of the United States,
a Regulated Research Institution would be a comparable
research institution that adheres to country laws governing
the care and use of vertebrate animals.
Some protocols permitted in a Registered Research
Institution are not permitted for participation in the Intel
ISEF; adherence to RRI rules is necessary but may not be
sufficient.
1) The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee
(IACUC) or the comparable animal oversight committee
must approve all student research projects before
experimentation begins. Such research projects must
be conducted under the responsibility of a principal
investigator. The local and regional SRC must also review
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 13
Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents
Rules for use of microorganisms (including bacteria, viruses, viroids, prions, rickettsia, fungi,
and parasites), recombinant DNA (rDNA) technologies or human or animal fresh/frozen tissues,
blood, or body fluids.
Research using microorganisms (including bacteria, viruses, 3) The use of potentially hazardous microorganisms
viroids, prions, rickettsia, fungi, and parasites), recombinant (including bacteria, viruses, viroids, prions, rickettsia,
DNA (rDNA) technologies or human or animal fresh/frozen fungi, and parasites), recombinant DNA (rDNA)
tissues, blood, or body fluids may involve potentially technologies or human or animal fresh/frozen tissues,
hazardous biological agents. Students are permitted to do blood, or body fluids, is allowable as follows:
some research projects with potentially hazardous biological a. An affiliated fair SRC, an IBC or an IACUC must
agents meeting the conditions and rules described below approve all research before experimentation begins.
which were designed to protect students and to ensure The initial risk assessment determined by the student
adherence to federal and international biosafety regulations researcher and adults supervising the project must be
and guidelines. confirmed by the SRC, IBC or IACUC.
b. Experimentation involving the culturing of potentially
When dealing with potentially hazardous biological agents, hazardous biological agents, even BSL-1 organisms,
it is the responsibility of the student and all of the adults is prohibited in a home environment. However,
involved in a research project to conduct and document a risk specimens may be collected at home as long as they
assessment (Form 6A) to define the potential level of harm, are immediately transported to a laboratory with the
injury or disease to plants, animals and humans that may occur BSL containment determined by the affiliated fair
when working with biological agents. The risk assessment SRC.
determines a biosafety level which in turn determines if c. Research determined to be at Biosafety Level 1
the project can proceed, and if so, the laboratory facilities, (BSL-1) must be conducted in a BSL-1 or higher
equipment, training, and supervision required. laboratory. The research must be supervised by a
trained Designated Supervisor or a Qualified Scientist.
All projects involving microorganisms, recombinant DNA The student must be properly trained in standard
technologies and human or animal fresh/frozen tissues, blood microbiological practices.
or body fluids must adhere to the rules below AND, depending d. Research determined to be a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-
on the study, to the additional rules in Section A, B or C. 2) must be conducted in a laboratory rated BSL-2 or
above (commonly limited to a Regulated Research
Rules for ALL Studies with Institution). The research must be reviewed and
Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents approved by the Institutional Biosafety Committee
1) The following types of studies are exempt from prior (IBC) or a letter or document from the Regulated
SRC review and require no additional forms: Research Institution that the research does not
a. Studies involving baker’s yeast and brewer’s yeast, require review. The research must be supervised by a
except when used with rDNA studies. Qualified Scientist.
b. Studies involving Lactobacillus, Bacillus thurgensis, e. BSL-3 or -4 research is prohibited.
nitrogen-fixing, oil-eating bacteria, and algae-eating f. Laboratory studies culturing known MRSA (Methicillin-
bacteria introduced into their natural environment. resistant Staphlococcus aureus), VRE (Vancomycin-
(Not exempt if cultured in a petri dish environment.) resistant enterococci) and KPC (Klebsiella pneumonia)
c. Studies of mold growth on food items if the must be conducted in a BSL-2 laboratory in a
experiment is terminated at the first evidence of Regulated Research Institution with documented IBC
mold. Committee review and approval.
g. Studies that genetically engineer bacteria with
2) The following types of studies are exempt from prior multiple antibiotic resistance are prohibited.
SRC review, but require a Risk Assessment Form 3: h. Extreme caution must be exercised when selecting
a. Studies involving protists, archaea and similar and sub-culturing antibiotic-resistant organisms.
microorganisms. Studies using such organisms require at least BSL-2
b. Research using manure for composting, fuel containment.
production, or other non-culturing experiments. i. Naturally-occurring plant pathogens may be studied
c. Commercially-available color change coliform water (not cultured) at home, but may not be introduced
test kits. These kits must remain sealed and must be into a home/garden environment.
properly disposed. j. The culturing of human or animal waste, including
d. Studies involving decomposition of vertebrate sewage sludge, is considered a BSL-2 study.
organisms (such as in forensic projects). k. All potentially hazardous biological agents must be
properly disposed at the end of experimentation in
accordance with their biosafety level. For BSL 1 or
Page 14 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
BSL 2 organisms: Autoclave at 121 degrees Celsius 1) All rDNA technology studies involving BSL-1 organisms
for 20 minutes, use of a 10% bleach solution (1:10 and BSL-1 host vector systems must be conducted in a
dilution of domestic bleach), incineration, alkaline BSL-1 laboratory under the supervision of a Qualified
hydrolysis, biosafety pick-up and other manufacturer Scientist or Designated Supervisor and must be
recommendations are acceptable. approved by the SRC prior to experimentation. Examples
l. Any proposed changes in the Research Plan by include cloning of DNA in E. coli K12, S. cerevesiae, and
the student after initial local or affiliated fair SRC B. subtilis host-vector systems.
approval must undergo subsequent SRC or IBC review
and approval before such changes are made and 2) Commercially available rDNA kits using BSL-1 organisms
before experimentation resumes. may be conducted in a BSL-1 laboratory under the
4) The following forms are required: supervision of a Qualified Scientist or trained Designated
• Checklist for Adult Sponsor (1), Student Checklist Supervisor and must be approved by the SRC prior to
(1A), Research Plan, and Approval Form (1B) experimentation.
• Regulated Research Institution Form (1C) - when
applicable. 3) An rDNA technology study using BSL-1 agents that
• Qualified Scientist (2), when applicable may convert to BSL-2 agents during the course of
• Risk Assessment (3), when applicable experimentation must be conducted entirely in a BSL-2
• PHBA Risk Assessment Form (6A), when applicable facility.
• Human and Vertebrate Animal Tissue Form (6B) –
for all studies involving tissues and body fluids. 4) All rDNA technology studies involving BSL-2 organisms
Sources of Information are available as a separate and/or BSL-2 host vector systems must be conducted in
section at the end of the document. a Regulated Research Institution and approved by the
IBC prior to experimentation.
A. Additional Rules for Projects Involving
Unknown Microorganisms 5) Propagation of recombinants containing DNA coding
Studies involving unknown microorganisms present for oncogenes or other human, plant or animal toxins
a challenge because the presence, concentration and (including viruses) is prohibited.
pathogenicity of possible agents are unknown. In
science fair projects, these studies typically involve the C. Additional Rules for Projects with Tissues
collection and culturing of microorganisms from the and Body Fluids, including Blood and Blood
environment (e.g. soil, household surfaces, skin.) Products
Studies involving fresh/frozen tissue, blood or body
1) Research with unknown microorganisms can be treated fluids obtained from humans and/or vertebrates may
as a BSL-1 study under the following conditions: contain microorganisms and have the potential of
a. Organism is cultured in a plastic petri dish (or other causing disease. Therefore, a proper risk assessment is
standard non-breakable container) and sealed. Other required.
acceptable containment includes two heavy-duty (2-
ply) sealed bags. 1) The following types of tissue do not need to be treated
b. Experiment involves only procedures in which the as potentially hazardous biological agents:
Petri dish remains sealed throughout the experiment a. Plant tissue
(e.g., counting presence of organisms or colonies). b. Plant and non-primate established cell lines and tissue
c. The sealed Petri dish is disposed of via autoclaving or culture collections (e.g., obtained from the American
disinfection under the supervision of the Designated Type Culture Collection). The source and/or catalog
Supervisor. number of the cultures must be identified in the
Research Plan.
2) If a culture container with unknown microorganisms c. Fresh or frozen meat, meat by-products, pasteurized
is opened for any purpose, (except for disinfection milk or eggs obtained from food stores, restaurants,
for disposal), it must be treated as a BSL-2 study and or packing houses.
involve BSL-2 laboratory procedures. d. Hair.
e. Teeth that have been sterilized to kill any blood-
B. Additional Rules for Projects Involving borne pathogen that may be present. Chemical
Recombinant DNA (rDNA) Technologies disinfection or autoclaving at 121 degrees Celsius for
Studies involving rDNA technologies in which 20 minutes is recommended.
microorganisms have been genetically modified require f. Fossilized tissue or archeological specimens.
close review to assess the risk level assignment. Some g. Prepared fixed tissue.
rDNA studies can be safely conducted in a BSL-1 high
school laboratory with prior review by a knowledgeable
SRC:
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 15
2) Research involving human and/or non-human primate 10) Studies of human body fluids, where the sample can be
established cell lines and tissue culture collections (e.g., identified with a specific person, must have IRB review
obtained from the American Type Culture Collection) and approval, and informed consent. Student researchers
must be considered a BSL-1 or BSL-2 level organism as using their own body fluids are exempt from this
indicated by source information and treated accordingly. requirement.
The source and/or catalog number of the cultures must
be identified in the Research Plan. 11) Self-sampling of capillary blood for analysis (e.g.
glucometer reading) may be conducted in a home
3) If tissues are obtained from an animal that was setting.
euthanized for a purpose other than the student’s
project, it may be considered a tissue study. 12) Studies involving embryonic human stem cells must
Documentation of the IACUC approval for the original be conducted in a Registered Research Institution and
animal study from which tissues are obtained is required. reviewed and approved by the ESCRO (Embryonic Stem
Cell Research Oversight) Committee.
4) If the animal was euthanized solely for the student’s
project, the study must be considered a vertebrate
animal project and is subject to the vertebrate animal
rules for studies conducted at a Regulated Research
Institution. (See vertebrate animal rules.)
5) Biosafety level 1 tissue studies involve the collection
and examination of fresh/frozen tissue and/or body
fluids, (not including blood or blood products; see rule
7) from a non-infectious source with little likelihood
of microorganisms present. Biosafety level 1 studies
must be conducted in a BSL-1 laboratory or higher and
must be supervised by a Qualified Scientist or trained
Designated Supervisor.
6) Biosafety level 2 tissue studies involve the collection
and examination of fresh/frozen tissues or body fluids
that may contain microorganisms belonging to BSL-1
or -2. These studies must be conducted in a Regulated
Research Institution in a BSL-2 laboratory under the
supervision of a Qualified Scientist.
7) All studies involving human or wild animal blood or blood
products should be considered a Biosafety level 2 study
and must be conducted in a BSL-2 laboratory under the
supervision of a Qualified Scientist. Studies involving
domestic animal blood may be considered a BSL-1 level
study. All blood must be handled in accordance with
standards and guidelines set forth in the OSHA, 29CFR,
Subpart Z. Any tissue or instruments with the potential
of containing blood-borne pathogens (e.g. blood, blood
products, tissues that release blood when compressed,
blood contaminated instruments) must be properly
disposed after experimentation.
8) Human breast milk of unknown origin, unless certified
free of HIV and Hepatitis C and domestic unpasteurized
animal milk are considered BSL-2.
9) Any study involving the collection and examination
of body fluids which may contain biological agents
belonging to BSL-3 or -4 is prohibited.
Page 16 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents Risk Assessment
Use this information to complete PHBA Risk Assessment Form 6A
Risk assessment defines the potential level of harm, injury • Assessment of the experience and expertise of the
or disease to plants, animals and humans that may occur adult(s) supervising the student.
when working with biological agents. The end result of a • Assignment of a biosafety level for the study based
risk assessment is the assignment of a biosafety level which on risk group of biological agent, level of biological
then determines the laboratory facilities, equipment, training, containment available and the expertise of the
and supervision required. Qualified Scientist or Designated Supervisor who will
be supervising the project.
Risk assessment involves:
• Assignment of the biological agent to a risk group If a study is conducted at a non-regulated site (e.g. school),
o Studies involving a known microorganism the biosafety level must be confirmed by the local or
must begin with an initial assignment of affiliated fair SRC. If the research is conducted at a Regulated
the microorganism to a biosafety level Research Institution, the biosafety level must be assigned
risk group based on information available by an Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) or equivalent
through a literature search. approval body or a letter from an institutional representative
o The study of unknown microorganisms certifying that the research does not require review. If no
and the use of fresh tissues relies on the approval body exists at the Regulated Research Institution, a
expertise of the supervising adult(s). letter or document from the Regulated Research Institution
that the research does not require review is required and the
• Determination of the level of biological containment local or affiliated fair SRC must review the project and assign
available to the student researcher to conduct a biosafety level. If possible, this review should be before
the experimentation. (See “Levels of Biological experimentation.
Containment” for details.)
Classification of Biological Agents Levels of Biological Containment
Risk Groups There are four levels of biological containment (Biosafety
Biological agents, plant or animal, are classified according to Level 1–4). Each level has guidelines for laboratory facilities,
biosafety level risk groups. These classifications presume safety equipment and laboratory practices and techniques.
ordinary circumstances in the research laboratory, or growth
of agents in small volumes for diagnostic and experimental BSL-1 containment is normally found in water-testing
purposes. laboratories, in high schools, and in colleges teaching
introductory microbiology classes. Work is done on an open
BSL-1 risk group contains biological agents that pose low bench or in a fume hood. Standard microbiological practices
risk to personnel and the environment. These agents are are used when working in the laboratory. Decontamination
highly unlikely to cause disease in healthy laboratory workers, can be achieved by treating with chemical disinfectants or
animals or plants. The agents require Biosafety Level 1 by steam autoclaving. Lab coats are required and gloves
containment. Examples of BSL-1 organisms are: Escherichia recommended. The laboratory work is supervised by an
coli strain K12, Agrobacterium tumifaciens, Micrococcus individual with general training in microbiology or a related
leuteus, Neurospora crassa, Bacillus subtilis. science.
BSL-2 risk group contains biological agents that pose BSL-2 containment is designed to maximize safety when
moderate risk to personnel and the environment. If exposure working with agents of moderate risk to humans and the
occurs in a laboratory situation, the risk of spread is limited environment. Access to the laboratory is restricted. Biological
and it rarely would cause infection that would lead to serious safety cabinets (Class 2, type A, BSC) must be available. An
disease. Effective treatment and preventive measures are autoclave should be readily available for decontaminating
available in the event that an infection occurs. The agents waste materials. Lab coats, gloves and face protection are
require Biosafety Level 2 containment. Examples of BSL-2 required. The laboratory work must be supervised by a
organisms are: Mycobacterium, Streptococcus pneumonia, scientist who understands the risk associated with working
Salmonella choleraesuis. with the agents involved.
BSL-3 risk group contains biological agents that usually cause BSL-3 containment is required for infectious agents that
serious disease (human, animal or plant) or that can result in may cause serious or potentially lethal diseases as a result
serious economic consequences. Projects in the BSL-3 group of exposure by inhalation. Projects in the BSL-3 group are
are prohibited. prohibited.
BSL-4 risk group contains biological agents that usually BSL-4 containment is required for dangerous/exotic agents
produce very serious disease (human, animal or plant) that is that pose high risk of life-threatening disease. Projects in the
often untreatable. Projects in the BSL-4 group are prohibited. BSL-4 group are prohibited.
Hazardous Chemicals, Activities or Devices
(Includes DEA-controlled substances, prescription drugs, alcohol & tobacco,
firearms and explosives, radiation, lasers, etc.
The following rules apply to research using hazardous c. Qualified Scientist Form (2), when applicable
chemicals, devices and activities. These include substances d. Risk Assessment Form (3)
and devices that are regulated by local, state, country, or
international law, most often with restrictions of their use by Additional Rules for Specific Regulated
minors such as DEA-controlled substances, prescription drugs, Substances
alcohol, tobacco, firearms and explosives. Hazardous activities There are additional rules for the following regulated
are those that involve a level of risk above and beyond that substances:
encountered in the student’s everyday life.
A. DEA-controlled Substances
These rules are intended to protect the student researcher B. Prescription Drugs
by ensuring proper supervision and the consideration of all C. Alcohol & Tobacco
potential risks so that the appropriate safety precautions are D. Firearms and Explosives
taken. Students are required to meet all standards imposed by
Intel ISEF, school, local, and/or regional fair(s).
A. DEA-Controlled Substances
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
Rules for ALL Projects Involving Hazardous regulates chemicals that can be diverted from their
Chemicals, Activities and Devices intended use to make illegal drugs. Other countries may
1) The use of hazardous chemicals and devices and have similar regulatory bodies; students outside of the
involvement in hazardous activities require direct U.S. must adhere to their own country’s drug regulatory
supervision by a Designated Supervisor, except those agency requirements in addition to U.S. DEA regulations.
involving DEA-controlled substances, which require DEA-controlled substances and their schedule number
supervision by a Qualified Scientist. are at the DEA website under Sources of Information.
It is the responsibility of the student to consult this
2) The student researcher must conduct a risk assessment list if there is a possibility that substances used in
in collaboration with a Designated Supervisor or experimentation could be regulated.
Qualified Scientist prior to experimentation. This risk 1) All studies using DEA-controlled substances must be
assessment is documented on the Risk Assessment supervised by a Qualified Scientist who is licensed by
Form 3. the DEA (or other international regulatory body) for
use of the controlled substance.
3) Student researchers must acquire and use regulated 2) All studies using DEA Schedule 1 substances must
substances in accordance with all local, state, U.S. have the research protocol approved by DEA before
federal and country laws. For further information or research begins. Schedule 2, 3 and 4 substances do
classification for these laws and regulations, contact the not require protocol approval by DEA.
appropriate regulatory agencies.
B. Prescription Drugs
4) For all chemicals, devices or activities requiring a Federal Prescription drugs are drugs regulated by federal or
and/or State Permit, the student/supervisor must obtain country laws and are available only through a pharmacy
the permit prior to the onset of experimentation. A copy to protect against inappropriate or unsafe use. Special
of the permit must be available for review by adults precautions must be taken in their use for a science
supervising the project and the local and affiliated and project as follows:
the ISEF Scientific Review Committee in their review 1) Students are prohibited from administering
prior to competition. prescription drugs to human participants.
2) A veterinarian must supervise student administration
5) The student researcher must minimize the impact of of any prescription drugs to vertebrate animals.
an experiment on the environment. Examples include
using minimal quantities of chemicals that will require
subsequent disposal; ensuring that all disposal is done in C. Alcohol and Tobacco
an environmentally safe manner and in accordance with The U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
good laboratory practices. (TTB) regulates the production of alcohol and
distribution of alcohol and tobacco products. Many such
6) The following forms are required: products are restricted by age for purchase, possession
a. Checklist for Adult Sponsor (1), Student Checklist and consumption. Students outside of the U.S. must
(1A), Research Plan and Approval Form (1B) adhere to U.S. regulations and to their local and country
b. Regulated Research Institution Form (1C), when laws and regulations.
applicable
Page 18 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
1. The Designated Supervisor is responsible for the A. Hazardous Chemicals
acquisition, usage and appropriate disposal of the A proper risk assessment of chemicals must include
alcohol or tobacco used in the study. review of the following factors:
Toxicity – the tendency of a chemical to be
2. Production of ethyl alcohol (wine or beer) is allowable hazardous to health when inhaled, swallowed,
in the home under parental supervision and must injected or in contact with the skin.
meet the TTB home production regulations. Reactivity — the tendency of a chemical to
undergo chemical change.
3. Fermentation studies in which minute quantities of Flammability — the tendency of a chemical to give
ethyl alcohol are produced are permitted. off vapors which readily ignite when used under
normal working conditions.
4. Students are allowed to distill alcohol for fuel or other Corrosiveness — the tendency of a chemical, upon
non-consumable products. To do so, the work must physical contact, to harm or destroy living tissues
be conducted at school and a TTB permit must be or physical equipment.
obtained by school authorities. Details regarding this
process are available from the Alcohol and Tobacco When assessing risk, the type and amount of exposure
Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) website. to a chemical must be considered. For example, an
individual’s allergic and genetic disposition may have
D. Firearms and Explosives an influence on the overall effect of the chemical. The
The U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and student researcher must refer to Material Safety Data
Explosives (ATF), along with state agencies, regulates Sheets provided by the vendor (MSDS) to ensure that
the purchase and use of firearms and explosives. A proper safety precautions are taken. Some MSDS sheets
firearm is defined as a small arms weapon from which (e.g., Flinn) rank the degree of hazard associated with
a projectile is fired by gunpowder. An explosive is any a chemical. This rating may assist students and adult
chemical compound, mixture or device, the primary sponsors in determining risk associated with the use of
purpose of which is to function by explosion. Explosives a chemical.
include, but are not limited to, dynamite, black powder,
pellet powder, detonators, and igniters. A risk assessment must include proper disposal methods
for the chemicals used in an experiment. The Flinn
The purchase of a firearm by a minor is generally Catalog (referenced in the Sources of Information
unlawful. The use of a firearm, without proper state section) provides information for the proper disposal
certification, is illegal. Students should check the training of chemicals. If applicable, the student researcher must
and certification requirements of individual states and incorporate in the research plan disposal procedure
countries. required by federal and state guidelines.
1) Projects involving firearms and explosives are
allowable when conducted with the direct supervision
of a Designated Supervisor and when in compliance Environmentally Responsible Chemistry
with all federal, state and local laws. The mission of environmentally responsible (green)
chemistry is to avoid the use or production of hazardous
2) A fully assembled rocket motor, reload kit or substances during a chemical process. The principles of
propellant modules containing more than 62.5 grams green chemistry are described on the EPA website in the
of propellant are subject to the permitting, storage Sources of Information section. The following principles
and other requirements of federal explosive laws and must be incorporated into the research plan:
regulations. • Waste prevention
• Use of the safest possible chemicals and products
3) Potato guns and paintball guns are not firearms • Design of the least possible hazardous chemical
unless they are intended to be used as weapons. syntheses
They must be treated as hazardous devices. • Use of renewable materials
• Use of catalysts in order to minimize chemical usage
Guidance for Risk Assessment • Use of solvents and reaction conditions that are as safe
Please find below guidance on conducting risk assessment as possible
when using the following: • Maximization of energy efficiency
A. Hazardous Chemicals • Minimization of accident potential
B. Hazardous Devices
C. Radiation
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 19
B. Hazardous Devices
The documentation of risk assessment (Form 3)
is required when a student researcher works with
potentially hazardous/dangerous equipment and/or
other devices, in or outside a laboratory setting that
require a moderate to high level of expertise to ensure
their safe usage. Some commonly used devices (Bunsen
burners, hot plates, saws, drills, etc.) may not require a
documented risk assessment, assuming that the student
researcher has experience working with the device.
Use of other potentially dangerous devices such as high
vacuum equipment, heated oil baths, NMR equipment,
and high temperature ovens must have documentation
of a risk assessment. It is recommended that all student
designed inventions also have documentation of a risk
assessment.
C. Radiation
A risk assessment must be conducted when a student
uses non-ionizing radiation beyond that normally
encountered in everyday life. Non-ionizing radiation
includes the spectrum of ultraviolet (UV), visible light,
infrared (IR), microwave (MW), radiofrequency (RF) and
extremely low frequency (ELF). Lasers usually emit
visible, ultraviolet or infrared radiation. Lasers are
classified into four classes based upon their safety.
Manufacturers are required to label Classes II – IV lasers.
Class I lasers – those found in CD players, laser
printers, geological survey equipment and some
laboratory equipment. There are no known risks
associated with using a Class I laser.
Class II lasers – found in laser pointers, aiming and
range-finding devices. These pose a risk if the
beam is viewed directly over a long period of time.
Class III lasers – found in higher-powered laser
pointers, printers and spectrometers. They are
hazardous devices which can cause eye damage
when the beam is viewed directly even for a short
period of time.
Class IV lasers – high powered lasers used
in surgery, research, and industry. They are
extremely hazardous and can cause eye and skin
damage from both direct and indirect exposure.
The beam is also a fire hazard.
Projects involving radionuclides (radioisotopes) and
X-rays must involve a careful examination of the risks
associated with the study. Depending upon the level
of exposure, radiation released from these sources can
be a health hazard. Most research institutions have
a Radiation Safety Office which oversees the use of
ionizing radiation and ensures compliance with state and
federal regulations.
Sources of Information are available as a separate
section at the end of the document.
Page 20 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
Intel ISEF Display and Safety Regulations
Please address any questions regarding Intel ISEF Display and Safety Regulations to:
John O. Cole, Display and Safety Committee Chair, E-mail: displayandsafety@societyforscience.org
Display and Safety Authority
The Intel ISEF Display and Safety Committee is the final authority on display and safety issues for projects approved by the SRC
to compete in the Intel ISEF. Occasionally, the Intel ISEF Display and Safety Committee may require students to make revisions to
conform to display and safety regulations. The Regulations that follow have been divided into two main categories to separate
those that deal specifically with display regulations and those that pertain to safety regulations.
Position of Project
Display Regulations Table or freestanding display must be parallel to, and
The following regulations must be adhered to positioned at, the back curtain of the booth.
when a finalist exhibits a project at Intel ISEF.
Display Content for Research Institution and/or
Continuation Projects
The project display summarizes the research project and
must focus on the student(s) work for this year’s study with
only minimal reference to previous research. Longitudinal
studies may present only conclusionary data from prior years.
[Exception: the project title of the display board may mention
years or which year the project is (for example, “Year Two
of an Ongoing Study”).] Continuation projects must have the
Continuation Project Form (7) vertically displayed.
In addition, the project display must be limited to the
work conducted by the student(s) for the project. The
mentor’s research, even if it was a precursor to student
experimentation (e.g. animal research from which tissue was
obtained for the project) is not a part of the student research
project and must not be included in the display. Very minimal
reference to work done by a mentor or others may be included
only for background information or clarification of what the
student’s research covered and must clearly indicate that it
was not part of the student’s work.
Forms Required to be Visible and Vertically
Displayed
Maximum Size of Project The only items that may be displayed on the front of the
Depth (front to back): 30 inches or 76 centimeters tables provided are the forms listed below.
Width (side to side): 48 inches or 122 centimeters
Height (floor to top): 108 inches or 274 centimeters All finalists must display vertically the following documents:
1) Original of official Abstract and Certification as approved
At the Intel ISEF, fair-provided tables will not exceed a height and stamped/embossed by the Intel ISEF Scientific
of 36 inches (91 centimeters). Maximum project sizes include Review Committee.
all project materials, supports, and demonstrations for public 2) Completed Intel ISEF Project Set-up Approval Form SRC/
and judges. If a table is used, it becomes part of the project DS2 (Received on-site at the Fair)
and must not itself exceed the allowed dimensions nor may
the table plus any part of the project exceed the allowed If either of the following documents is required, it must be
dimensions. displayed vertically.
1) Regulated Research Institutional/Industrial Setting
Nothing can be attached to the rear curtain for display, and Form(1C) — if applicable
any framework supporting the display must be within the 2) Continuation Projects Form (7) — if applicable
allowable dimensions.
Forms Required at Project but not Displayed
At the Intel ISEF, any project with a component that will be Forms including, but not limited to, Checklist for Adult
demonstrated by the finalist must be demonstrated only Sponsor (1), Student Checklist (1A), Research Plan and
within the confines of the finalist’s booth. When not being Approval Form (1B) which are required for the project or
demonstrated, the component plus the project must not for Scientific Review Committee approval do not have to be
exceed the maximum size dimensions for a project.
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 21
displayed as part of the project but must be available in the ISEF Scientific Review Committee. If the Scientific Review
booth in case asked for by a judge or other Intel ISEF official. Committee requires a finalist to make changes to the abstract
A photograph/video release form signed by the subject is and certification submitted with registration papers, the
required for visual images of humans (other than the finalist) revised version will be stamped/embossed, will replace the
displayed as part of the project. earlier version, and will become the finalist’s official abstract
and certification.
Informed Consent Forms not to be Displayed
When human participants are involved in a project, consent The only abstract allowed anywhere at a project is the official
forms may be required by SRC but should not be displayed as abstract. The term “abstract” may not be used as a title or
they are confidential documents. reference for any information on a finalist’s display or in a
finalist’s materials at the project except as part of displaying
Photograph/Image Display Requirements the official abstract. An original stamped/embossed official
Display of photographs other than that of the finalist must abstract and certification must appear on the display
have a photo release signed by the subject, and if under 18 board or in a vertical position at the project.
years of age, also by the guardian of the subject. Sample
consent text: “I consent to the use of visual images (photos, Any disks, CDs, printed materials, etc. (including unofficial
videos, etc.) involving my participation/my child’s abstracts) designed to be distributed to judges or the public
participation in this research.” will be confiscated by the Display and Safety Committee and
will be discarded immediately.
Finalists using audio-visual or multi-media presentations
(for example, 35mm slides; videotapes; images, graphics, Items/Materials Not Allowed at Project
animations, etc., displayed on computer monitors; or other The following is a list of what cannot be displayed at the
non-print presentation methods) must be prepared to show project:
the entire presentation to the Display and Safety inspectors 1) Awards, medals, business cards, flags, logos,
before the project is approved. CDs, DVDs, Flash Drives, brochures, booklets, nor
endorsements, give-away items (pens, key chains,
Any photograph/visual image/chart/table and/or graph is etc.), and/or acknowledgments (graphic or written).
allowed if: (Exceptions: Flash drives, CDs, DVDs that are an integral
a. It is not deemed offensive or inappropriate (which part of the project and used for judging only with prior
includes images/photographs showing invertebrate approval given during inspection; past and present Intel
or vertebrate animals/humans in surgical, necrotizing ISEF medals worn by the finalists.)
or dissection situations) by the Scientific Review 2) Postal addresses, World Wide Web, e-mail and/or social
Committee, the Display and Safety Committee, or media addresses, QR codes, telephone, and/or fax
Society for Science & the Public. The decision made by numbers of a finalist.
any one of the groups mentioned above is final. 3) Active Internet or e-mail connections as part of
b. It has a credit line of origin (“Photograph taken by...,”or displaying or operating the project at the Intel ISEF
“Image taken from...,” or “Graph/Chart/Table taken from. 4) Prior years’ written material or visual depictions on
. . .”). (If all images, etc. being displayed were taken or the vertical display board. [Exception: the project title
created by the finalist or are from the same source, one displayed in the finalist’s booth may mention years or
credit line prominently and vertically displayed on the which year the project is (for example, “Year Two of an
backboard/poster or tabletop is sufficient.) Ongoing Study”)]. Continuation projects must have the
c. It is from the Internet, magazine, newspaper, journal, Continuation Project Form (7) vertically displayed.
etc., and a credit line is attached. (If all photographs, etc.
are from the same source, one credit prominently and Other Display Regulations
vertically displayed is sufficient.) 1) No changes, modifications, or additions to projects
d. It is a photograph or visual depiction of the finalist. may be made after approval by the Display and Safety
e. It is a photograph or visual depiction for which a signed Committee and the Scientific Review Committee.
consent form is at the project or in the booth. Finalists who do not adhere to the signed agreement
Note: Images used as backgrounds must also be credited. on the SRC/DS2 Form regarding this regulation will
fail to qualify for competition. A project data book
Handouts Allowed at Project and research paper are not required but are highly
Official Abstract recommended.
Handouts to judges and to the public must be limited to 2) If a project fails to qualify and is not removed by the
UNALTERED photocopies of the official abstract and finalist, Society for Science & the Public will remove
certification. the project in the safest manner possible but is not
responsible for damage to the project.
The Intel ISEF Scientific Review Committee defines the
“official abstract and certification” as an UNALTERED original
abstract and certification as stamped/embossed by the Intel
Page 22 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
wattage available is determined by the electrical circuit
Safety Regulations capacities of the exhibit hall and may be adjusted
on-site by the Display and Safety Committee. For all
The following regulations must be adhered to electrical regulations, “120 Volt A.C.” or “220 Volt A.C.”
when a Finalist exhibits a project at the Intel is intended to encompass the corresponding range of
ISEF. voltage as supplied by the facility in which the Intel ISEF
is being held.
5) All electrical work must conform to the Exhibit
Not Allowed at Project or Booth Hall regulations or the National Electrical Code.
1) Living organisms, including plants (www.nfpa.org/aboutthecodes/AboutTheCodes.
2) Soil, sand, rock, and/or waste samples, even if asp?DocNum=70&cookie_test=1). The guidelines
permanently encased in a slab of acrylic presented in these D & S regulations are general ones,
3) Taxidermy specimens or parts and other rules may apply to specific configurations. The
4) Preserved vertebrate or invertebrate animals on-site electrician may review electrical work on any
5) Human or animal food project.
6) Human/animal parts or body fluids (for example, blood, 6) All electrical connectors, wiring, switches, extension
urine) cords, fuses, etc. must be UL/CSA-listed and must be
7) Plant materials (living, dead, or preserved) that are in appropriate for the load and equipment. Connections
their raw, unprocessed, or non-manufactured state must be soldered or made with UL/CSA-listed
(Exception: manufactured construction materials used in connectors. Wiring, switches, and metal parts must have
building the project or display) adequate insulation and over-current safety devices
8) All chemicals including water (Projects may not use (such as fuses) and must be inaccessible to anyone other
water in any form in a demonstration .) than the finalist. Exposed electrical equipment or metal
9) All hazardous substances or devices [for example, that possibly may be energized must be shielded with a
poisons, drugs, firearms, weapons, ammunition, reloading non-conducting material or with a grounded metal box to
devices, and lasers prevent accidental contact.
10) Dry ice or other sublimating solids 7) All lighting used for decoration or illumination must
11) Sharp items (for example, syringes, needles, pipettes, be UL/CSA approved. Lamp wattage must not exceed
knives) ratings. Lighting must not pose risk of injury if touched.
12) Flames or highly flammable materials As low a voltage as possible must be used.
13) Batteries with open-top cells 8) At the end of the day or the viewing period, all electrical
14) Glass or glass objects unless deemed by the Display and exhibits must be disconnected, and power bars must be
Safety Committee to be an integral and necessary part switched off.
of the project (for example, glass that is an integral part 9) Where practical and necessary, it is recommended that
of a commercial product such as a computer screen) indicator lights be used to indicate that the voltage is on.
15) Any apparatus deemed unsafe by the Scientific Review 10) An insulating grommet is required at the point where the
Committee, the Display and Safety Committee, or wire or cable enters any enclosure.
Society for Science & the Public (for example, large 11) No exposed live parts over 36 volts are allowed.
vacuum tubes or dangerous ray-generating devices, Current (amperage) must be low so as not to cause any
empty tanks that previously contained combustible discomfort or danger if touched.
liquids or gases, pressurized tanks, etc.) 12) There must be an accessible, clearly visible on/off switch
or other means of quickly disconnecting from the 120 or
220 Volt power source.
Electrical Regulations at Intel ISEF 13) Wet cells shall not be used because of the hazardous
1) Cord-connected electrical appliances shall be UL/CSA-
chemicals involved
approved. Cord components should be listed with UL or
CSA.
2) Electrical devices must be protectively enclosed. Any
enclosure must be non-combustible. All external non-
current carrying metal parts must be grounded using the
above listed UL/CSA connection and materials.
3) Finalists requiring 120 or 220 Volt A.C. electrical circuits
must provide a UL/CSA-listed 3-wire extension cord
which is appropriate for the load and equipment. Only
UL/CSA-approved extension cords in good repair shall be
used.
4) Electrical power is supplied to projects; therefore, the
maximum allowed for projects is 120 or 220 Volt,
A.C., single phase, 60 cycle. No multi-phase will be
available or shall be used. Maximum circuit amperage/
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 23
Laser Requirements
Lasers may be used in a finalist’s display under the following
guidelines. Display and Safety Inspectors may revoke the
privilege and require lasers to be removed if careless or
indiscriminate use is observed. Serious offenses may result in
revoking the right to display.
1) Class 1: A class 1 laser is safe under all conditions
of normal use. It is allowed provided a finalist avoids
indiscriminate exposure to other finalists, judges or
visitors.
2) Class 1M: A class 1M laser is safe for all conditions of
use except when passed through magnifying optics such
as microscopes and telescopes. It is allowed provided
the finalist avoids indiscriminate exposure to others
and does not utilize magnifying optics in the area of the
laser.
3) Class 2: A class 2 laser is safe because the blink reflex
will limit the exposure to no more than 0.25 seconds.
This only applies to visible-light lasers (400–700 nm).
4) Class 2M: A class 2M laser is safe because of the blink
reflex if not viewed through optical instruments. This
applies only to visible-light lasers (400–700 nm). It
is allowed provided the finalist avoids indiscriminate
exposure to others and does not utilize magnifying
optics in the area of the laser. Class 3R: A class 3R laser
has a risk of injury if viewed directly. It cannot be used
or displayed.
5) Class 3B: A class 3B laser has a risk of injury if viewed
directly. It cannot be used or displayed.
6) Class 4: A class 4 laser has a risk of injury if viewed
directly. It cannot be used or displayed.
Other Safety Regulations
1) Any inadequately insulated apparatus producing
extreme temperatures that may cause physical burns is
not allowed.
2) Any apparatus with unshielded belts, pulleys, chains, or
moving parts with tension or pinch points must be for
display only.
3) Society for Science & the Public, the Scientific Review
Committee, and/or the Display and Safety Committee
reserve the right to remove any project for safety
reasons or to protect the integrity of the Intel ISEF and
its rules and regulations.
4) Project sounds, lights, odors, or any other display items
must not be distracting. Exceptions to this rule may be
permitted for judging demonstrations. Approval must be
given prior to judging.
Page 24 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
Sources of Information 6) American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002-4242
ALL Projects phone: 202-336-5500; 800-374-2721
1. United States Patent and Trade Office www.apa.org
Customer Service: 1-800-786-9199 (toll-free);
571-272-1000 (local); 571-272-9950 (TTY) Information for students:
www.uspto.gov/ www.apa.org/science/leadership/students/information.
www.uspto.gov/patents/process/index.jsp aspx
2. European Patent Office Information regarding publications:
www.epo.org/ www.apa.org/pubs/index.aspx
www.epo.org/applying/basics.html
7) Educational and Psychological Testing
3) The Mad Scientist Network at Washington University Testing Office for the APA Science Directorate
School of Medicine: phone: 202-336-6000
www.madsci.org email: testing@apa.org
www.apa.org/science/programs/testing/index.aspx
4) ANS Task Force
www.anstaskforce.gov 8) The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998
(COPPA) (15 U.S.C. §§ 6501–6506)
Acquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Task Force www.ftc.gov/privacy/coppafaqs.shtm
www.anstaskforce.gov
www.anstaskforce.gov/Documents/ISEF.pdf
Vertebrate Animals
5) Success with Science: The Winner’s Guide to High Animal Care and Use
School Research 1) Laboratory Animals, Institute of Laboratory Animal
Gaglani, S. and DeObaldia, G. (2011). Research Research (ILAR), Commission on Life Sciences, National
Corporation for Science Advancement. Research
ISBN 0-9633504-8-X http://dels.nas.edu/ilar
2) Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
(2010)
Human Participants http://dels.nas.edu/global/ilar/links-care
1) Code of Federal Regulation (CFR), Title 45 (Public
Welfare), Part 46-Protection of Human Subjects
3) Guidelines for the Care and Use of Mammals in
(45CFR46)
Neuroscience and Behavioral Research (2003), Institute
http://ohsr.od.nih.gov/guidelines/45cfr46.html
for Laboratory Animal Research (ILAR).
dels.nas.edu/report/guidelines-carey/10732
2) Dunn, C. M. and Chadwick, G. L., Protecting Study
Volunteers in Research, 3rd Edition (2004). Boston, MA:
To order these ILAR publications contact:
Thomson Centerwatch. ISBN 1-930624-44-1.
National Academies Press
500 Fifth Street, NW
Can be purchased from:
Washington, DC 20055
www.amazon.com
phone: 888-624-8373 or 202-334-3313
fax: 202-334-2451; www.nap.edu
3) NIH tutorial, “Protecting Human Research Participants”
also provides similar information:
4) Federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA)
www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials/conducting/protecting-
7 U.S.C. 2131-2157
participants/Page2
Subchapter A - Animal Welfare (Parts I, II, III)
www.nal.usda.gov/awic/legislat/awicregs.htm
4) Belmont Report, April 18, 1979
http://ohsr.od.nih.gov/guidelines/belmont.html
Above document is available from:
USDA/APHIS/AC
5) Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing.
4700 River Road, Unit 84
(1999). Washington, DC: AERA, APA, NCME.
Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
www.apa.org/science/programs/testing/standards.aspx
email: ace@aphis.usda.gov
Tel: 301-734-7833
Fax: 301-734-4978’
http://awic.nal.usda.gov
5) Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in 4) Quarterly bibliographies of Alternatives to the Use of
Agricultural Research and Teaching (Agri-Guide) Live Vertebrates in Biomedical Research and Testing
Federation of Animal Science Societies (FASS) may be obtained from:
1800 S. Oak Street, Suite 100 Specialized Information Services
Champaign, IL 61820-6974 NLM/NIH
phone: 217-356-3182 2 Democracy Plaza, Suite 510
email: fass@assochq.org; www.fass.org 6707 Democracy Blvd., MSC 5467
Bethesda, MD 20892-5467
6) Guidelines for the Use of Fish in Research (2004), phone: 301-496-1131; Fax: 301-480-3537
American Fisheries Society. Toll Free: 888-FIND NLM or 888-346-3656
www.fisheries.org email: tehip@teh.nlm.nih.gov
www.fisheries.org/afs/docs/policy_16.pdf www.sis.nlm.nih.gov;
http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/altbib.html
7) Euthanasia Guidelines
AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia (June 2007) 5) John’s Hopkins Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing
American Veterinary Medical Association. (CAAT) has worked with scientists since 1981 to find
www.avma.org/issues/animal_welfare/euthanasia.pdf new methods to replace the use of laboratory animals in
experiments, reduce the number of animals tested, and
Alternative Research and Animal Welfare refine necessary tests to eliminate pain and distress.
1) The National Library of Medicine provides computer email: caat@jhsph.edu
searches through MEDLINE: http://caat.jhsph.edu/
Reference & Customer Services
National Library of Medicine Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents
8600 Rockville Pike 1) American Biological Safety Association: ABSA Risk Group
Bethesda, MD 20894 Classification – list of organisms
888-FIND-NLM or 888-346-3656 www.absa.org
301-594-5983; email: info@ncbi.nlm.nig.gov
www.nlm.nih.gov 2) American Type Culture Collection (ATCC)
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez www.atcc.org
2) National Agriculture Library (NAL) provides reference 3) Bergey’s Manual of Systematic Bacteriology website –
service for materials that document a) Alternative follow the links for resources and microbial databases for
Procedures to Animal Use and b) Animal Welfare. a collection of international websites of microorganisms
Animal Welfare Information Center and cell cultures: www.bergeys.org/resources.html
National Agriculture Library
10301 Baltimore Avenue, Room 410 4) Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories
Beltsville, MD 20705-2351 (BMBL) - 4th Edition. Published by CDC-NIH,
phone: 301-504-6212, fax: 301-504-7125 www.cdc.gov/biosafety/publications/bmbl5/BMBL.pdf
email: awic@ars.usda.gov
www.nal.usda.gov/awic 5) World Health Organization Laboratory Safety Manual
www.who.int/diagnostics_laboratory/guidance/en/
3) Institute of Laboratory Animal Resources (ILAR) provides
a variety of information on animal sources, housing 6) Canada – Agency of Public Health – list of non-
and handling standards, and alternatives to animal use pathogenic organisms
through annotated bibliographies published quarterly in www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/lab-bio/index_eng.php
ILAR Journal. www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/lab-bio/res/index-eng.php
ILAR
The Keck Center of the National Academies 7) Microorganisms for Education Website – list of organisms
500 Fifth Street, NW, Keck 687 www.science-projects.com/safemicrobes.htm
Washington, DC 20001
phone: 202-334-2590, fax: 202-334-1687 8) NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA
email: ILAR@nas.edu Molecules. Published by National Institutes of Health.
http://dels.nas.edu/ilar http://oba.od.nih.gov/oba/index.html
Page 26 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
9) OSHA – Occupational Health and Safety Administration 9) Occupational Safety and Health Administration
www.osha.gov www.osha.gov
Safety and Health Topics:
Hazardous Chemicals, Activities or Devices www.osha.gov/SLTC/
www.osha.gov/SLTC/reactivechemicals/index.html
General Lab/Chemical Safety www.osha.gov/SLTC/laserhazards/index.html
1) Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories, Volumes www.osha.gov/SLTC/radiationionizing/index.html
1 and 2, 2003. Washington, DC: American Chemical
Society. 10) U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Order from (first copy free of charge): Material Safety and Inspection Branch
American Chemical Society One White Flint North
Publications Support Services 11555 Rockville Pike
1155 16th Street, NW Rockville, MD 20852
Washington, DC 20036 phone: 301-415-8200; 800-368-5642
phone: 202-872-4000 or 800-227-5558 www.nrc.gov
email: help@acs.org,
www.acs.org/education
2) General
Howard Hughes Medical Institute as a resource forn
working with cell cultures, radioactive materials and
other laboratory materials.
www.hhmi.org/resources/
3) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website for
green chemistry
www.epa.gov/greenchemistry
4) Material Safety and Data Sheets (MSDS)
MSDS should be collected by your laboratory or available
from the manufacturer. The internet also has a range of
free resources:
www.flinnsci.com/sections/msds-search..aspx
A directory of MSDS sheets from Flinn Scientific Inc. that
includes a ranking of hazard level and disposal methods
www.ilpi.com/msds/index.html - A listing of numerous
sites that have free downloads of MSDS sheets
5) DEA Controlled Substances
Drug Enforcement Agency website:
www.justice.gov/dea/index.htm
Controlled Substance Schedules – a list of controlled
substances : www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/
6) Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
www.ttb.gov/
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
www.atf.gov
7) Radiation
Radiation Studies Information (CDC)
www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/default.htm
8) CDC Laboratory Safety Manuals
www.cdc.gov/biosafety/publications/index.htm
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 27
Information on Required Abstract & Certification for ALL Projects at the Intel ISEF
* This form may not be relevant for your regional or state fair; please refer to instructions from your affiliated fair.*
In ADDITION to the basic form requirements for ALL Projects and any other requirements due to specific areas of research,
an Abstract & Certification is required at the conclusion of research. Details on this requirement follow.
Completing the Abstract
After finishing research and Intel ISEF Sample Abstract & Certification
experimentation, you are required to Title Category
Pick one only--
Finalist’s Name
write a (maximum) 250 word, one-page School Name, City and State, Country mark an “X” in
box at right
abstract. This should be written on the
Official Abstract and Certification Form Start Typing the Body of Your Abstract Here Beginning at the Left Margin
Animal Sciences
Behavioral and
o
o
as provided by Society for Science & the Social Science
Biochemistry o
Public. The abstract should include the Cellular and
Molecular Biology
o
following: Chemistry
Computer Science
o
o
a) purpose of the experiment Earth Science
Eng. Materials and
o
o
b) procedure Bioengineering
Engineering.: Electrical o
c) data and Mechanical
Energy and o
d) conclusions Transportation
Environmental o
Sciences
Environmental o
It may also include any possible research Management
Mathematical Sciences o
applications. Only minimal reference to Medicine and Health
Microbiology
o
o
previous work may be included. An ab- Physics & Astronomy
Plant Sciences
o
o
stract must not include the following:
a) acknowledgments (including
naming the research institution and/
or mentor with which you were 1. As a part of this research project, the student directly handled, manipulated, or interacted with (check
working), or self-promotions and all that apply): potentially hazardous biological agents:
o human participants
external endorsements o microorganisms o rDNA o tissue
o vertebrate animals
b) work or procedures done by the 2. This abstract describes only procedures performed by me/us, reflects my/
mentor our own independent research, and represents one year’s work only. o yes o no
3. I/We worked or used equipment in a regulated research institution or industrial setting.
Completing the Certification 4. This project is a continuation of previous research.
o yes o no
At the bottom of the Abstract & 5. My display board includes non-published photographs/visual depictions
Certification form there are six of humans (other than myself):
o yes o no
questions. Please read each carefully 6. I/We hereby certify that the abstract and responses to the above state- FOR INTEL ISEF
OFFICIAL USE
and answer appropriately. The Intel ments are correct and properly reflect my/our own work.
ONLY
ISEF Scientific Research Committee will o yes o no
review and approve the abstract and This embossed seal attests that this project is in compliance with all federal and
state laws and regulations and that all appropriate reviews and approvals have been
answers to the questions. obtained including the final clearance of the Intel ISEF Scientific Review Committee.
Revisions or questions will be resolved
via a SRC appointment on site at the
Intel ISEF. Please bring a copy of your NOTE: Your abstract must be on the Intel International Science and
Abstract & Certification to the fair. Only Engineering Fair Abstract & Certification form and embossed/stamped
after final Intel ISEF SRC approval has by the Intel ISEF Scientific Review Committee before it is displayed or
been obtained via a stamped/embossed
handed out. No pasted or taped text will be permitted. No other format
copy of this Abstract & Certification may
or version of your approved Abstract & Certification will be allowed for
a Finalist make copies to hand out to the
judges and the public. (SSP provides the any purpose at the Intel ISEF.
first 30 copies.)
Page 28 International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef
Intel ISEF Categories and Subcategories
The categories have been established with the goal of better aligning judges and student projects for the judging at the Intel
ISEF. Local, regional, state and country fairs may or may not choose to use these categories, dependent on the needs of their
area. Please check with your affiliated fair(s) for the appropriate category listings at that level of competition.
Please visit our website at www.societyforscience.org/isef/students/project_categories for a full description and definition
of the Intel ISEF categories:
ANIMAL SCIENCES EARTH & PLANETARY SCIENCE MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES
Animal Husbandry Climatology, Weather Algebra
Development Geochemistry, Mineralogy Analysis
Ecology Paleontology Applied Mathematics
Pathology Geophysics Geometry
Physiology Planetary Science Probability and Statistics
Populations Genetics Tectonics Other
Systematics Other
Other MEDICINE & HEALTH SCIENCES
ENGINEERING: Electrical & Mechanical Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
BEHAVIORAL & SOCIAL SCIENCES Electrical Engineering, Computer Epidemiology
Clinical & Developmental Psychology Engineering, Controls Genetics
Cognitive Psychology Mechanical Engineering, Molecular Biology of Diseases
Physiological Psychology Robotics Physiology and Pathophysiology
Sociology Thermodynamics, Solar Other
Other Other
MICROBIOLOGY
BIOCHEMISTRY ENGINEERING: Materials & Bioengineering Antibiotics, Antimicrobials
General Biochemistry Bioengineering Bacteriology
Metabolism Chemical Engineering Microbial Genetics
Structural Biochemistry Civil Engineering, Construction Eng. Virology
Other Industrial Engineering, Processing Other
Material Science
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Other PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY
Cellular Biology Astronomy
Cellular and Molecular Genetics ENERGY & TRANSPORTATION Atoms, Molecules, Solids
Immunology Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering, Biological Physics
Molecular Biology Aerodynamics Instrumentation and Electronics
Other Alternative Fuels Magnetics and Electromagnetics
Fossil Fuel Energy Nuclear and Particle Physics
CHEMISTRY Vehicle Development Optics, Lasers, Masers
Analytical Chemistry Renewable Energies Theoretical Physics, Theoretical or
General Chemistry Other Computational Astronomy
Inorganic Chemistry Other
Organic Chemistry ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Physical Chemistry Bioremediation PLANT SCIENCES
Other Ecosystems Management Agriculture/Agronomy
Environmental Engineering Development
COMPUTER SCIENCE Land Resource Management, Forestry Ecology
Algorithms, Data Bases Recycling, Waste Management Genetics
Artificial Intelligence Other Photosynthesis
Networking and Communications Plant Physiology (Molecular, Cellular,
Computational Science, Computer ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES Organismal)
Graphics Air Pollution and Air Quality Plant Systematics, Evolution
Computer System, Operating System Soil Contamination and Soil Quality Other
Software Engineering., Programming Water Pollution and Water Quality
Languages Other
Other
International Rules: Guidelines for Science and Engineering Fairs 2012–2013, www.societyforscience.org/isef Page 29